Nevada WIDA ACCESS Exit Criteria (2026)
To exit English Learner (EL) status in Nevada, a student needs an overall composite of 4.5 or higher on WIDA ACCESS, and the state sets additional requirements or review pathways described below.
Verified: September 2026. Exit criteria change annually; confirm with the Nevada education agency before making a decision.
WIDA ACCESS (formerly ACCESS for ELLs) exit criteria
- An overall composite of 4.5 or higher
Nevada also has a pathway for students with an overall composite from 4.0 up to just below 4.5: they may exit only after an additional state-defined review or evidence step, never on the score alone.
Other state requirements: Students with an overall score from 4.0 to 4.4 may also exit if they are proficient in English Language Arts and math on the state test in grades 3 to 8, or on the ACT in grade 11.
WIDA Alternate ACCESS
Nevada does not publish an Alternate ACCESS exit rule as a single proficiency level on the current Alternate ACCESS scale (it may use scale scores, older score labels, or no published rule). Check the state's current guidance.
Monitoring after exit
4 years after exit. Federal guidance calls for districts to monitor former English learners' academic progress for at least two years; some states set a longer period.
Identification timeline
Within 30 calendar days of enrollment at the start of the school year, and within 14 calendar days for students who enroll during the year.
State terminology
Nevada uses the term English Learner (EL).
Sources
- Nevada exit criteria guidance (state source)
- Nevada identification and placement guidance (state document hosted by WIDA)
- Nevada English learner program page
Verified September 2026. States revise their criteria, and the state's current guidance always takes precedence over this summary.
Frequently asked questions
What ACCESS score is needed to exit EL status in Nevada?
To exit English Learner (EL) status in Nevada, a student needs an overall composite of 4.5 or higher on WIDA ACCESS, and the state sets additional requirements or review pathways described below.
Does Nevada require more than the overall ACCESS score?
There is no other ACCESS score minimum. Nevada also has a pathway for students with an overall composite from 4.0 up to just below 4.5: they may exit only after an additional state-defined review or evidence step, never on the score alone. Students with an overall score from 4.0 to 4.4 may also exit if they are proficient in English Language Arts and math on the state test in grades 3 to 8, or on the ACT in grade 11.
Can students who take WIDA Alternate ACCESS exit in Nevada?
Nevada does not publish an Alternate ACCESS exit rule as a single proficiency level on the current Alternate ACCESS scale (it may use scale scores, older score labels, or no published rule). Check the state's current guidance.
How long are former ELs monitored in Nevada?
Nevada monitors students for 4 years after exit. Federal guidance calls for districts to monitor former English learners' academic progress for at least two years; some states set a longer period.
How quickly must Nevada schools identify ELs?
Within 30 calendar days of enrollment at the start of the school year, and within 14 calendar days for students who enroll during the year. Confirm the timeline with the state's current guidance.
Track exit criteria without the spreadsheet
Melaa is a tool for ML program staff. It checks each student's ACCESS scores against your state's numeric exit criteria and flags students who need a team review. The exit decision always stays with your district.
Melaa is not affiliated with or endorsed by WIDA or the University of Wisconsin. Exit criteria are set by each state education agency, not by WIDA or Melaa. This page summarizes public state policy for information only; it is not legal advice and does not replace your state's current guidance or your district's exit decision.